Genotypic Differences In Maize Profitability “Hybrid Vs Local Cultivars” Applied with Variable Rates of Different Nitrogenous Fertilizer Sources.

Nitrogen (N) is one of the most important factors affecting maize (Zea mays L.) growth, yield and profitability. To investigate impact of N levels (50, 100, 150 and 200 kg ha^-1) and sources [urea, calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN) and ammonium sulphate (AS)] on the economic analysis of maize genotypes (Azam, Jalal and Pioneer-3025), field experiment was conducted at the Agriculture Research Farm of KPK Agricultural University, Peshawar, during summer 2008. The results indicated that among the N-fertilizer sources, the highest net returns (Rs.16262 ha^-1) was obtained with CAN and the highest VCR (value cost ratio) of 3.7 was noticed with urea. Among the various N levels, the highest net returns (Rs.15219 ha^-1) was obtained with 150 kg N ha^-1 and further increase in N level decreased net returns. Among the genotypes, the highest net returns (Rs.20527 ha^-1) and VCR (2.9) was calculated for maize hybrid Pioneer-3025. Application of urea at the two higher rates (150 and 200 kg N ha^-1), CAN at the two medium (100 and 150 kg N ha^-1) and AS at the two lower N rates (50 and 100 kg N ha^-1) were more economical in terms of net returns. The hybrid, Pioneer-3025 showed good response to all three sources of N-fertilizers as compared to the two local cultivars. The Pioneer-3025 had highest net returns when applied with CAN. At all the four levels of N, the performance of Pioneer-3025 was better than Jalal and Azam. Application of the highest rate of 200 kg N ha^-1 to both local cultivars (Jalal and Azam) was not economical. It is suggested that the prices of N-fertilizers should be fixed on the basis of amount of N present in a bag rather than the whole bag. It is injustice with the growers when they  buy a bag of AS (21 % N) and CAN (26 % N) at a higher price than urea which contains more N (46 %). The decrease in the prices of AS and CAN in country will not only decrease farmer’s cost of production on one hand but it could definitely increase crop productivity and its quality as well as profitability. Growing maize hybrid could increase maize productivity, reduce risk of food insecurity and enhance grower’s income in the country.

Key words: maize, Zea mays L., genotypes, N levels, N source, economic analysis